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Jul 06

Summer 2026

By Blog, FoundersMessages

“Summertime and the Living is Easy” are the iconic opening lyrics from George Gershwin’s Porgy and Bess. While acknowledging the complex history of the work, I feel the song perfectly captures the sultry, deep feelings of the season.

For me, summer has always represented a reprieve—from the strict confines of school as a child to the daily routines of being a teacher. It has always been a time to explore the outdoors, fish, hike, and camp. Now, as a small business owner, the season brings a sense of anxious anticipation. Our region is a global tourist destination, and like many other local businesses, we are cautiously optimistic that this summer will provide the added revenue needed to navigate the leaner months ahead. However, we also face uncertainties regarding high fuel and food prices and political turmoil. Many of the small businesses in our region rely on robust tourism, especially from our friends and neighbors from Canada. Yet a recent study from the University of Toronto indicates a 42% decline in Canadian tourism to the US this summer. This shift in traditional travel by Canadians is directly linked to current political rhetoric and decisions out of Washington DC and will significantly impacts our local bottom line here at home.

While much of this is out of our control, we can choose to focus our time, money and energy on our families and our community. We live in a beautiful, historic region, and perhaps this is the perfect time to rediscover the attractions in our own backyard. Visiting our local historic sites would be wonderful way to celebrate our nation’s 250th anniversary while supporting the local economy.

Regardless of your plans, everyone at Common Roots wishes you and your family safe travels and a chance to re-energize and relax this summer season. We invite you to spend some time with us, whether to relax in the Biergarten over your favorite beverage and a meal or by allowing us to host a special event. We would be honored to serve you, your family, and your friends.

Thank you,
Bert

Apr 10

Canned Cocktails Done Right: A Brewery Take on Ready to Drink

By Blog

Canned Cocktails Done Right: A Brewery Take on Ready to Drink

How the principles behind great beer shaped our canned cocktail lineup.

Canned cocktails have earned their place in the cooler. Porch hangs, river floats, post-trail rewards, the format fits the life. The adult beverage industry has never had more options. But more options don’t always mean better ones.

The parallels between craft beer and craft cocktails aren’t hard to draw. We’ve spent years learning what separates a great beer from a forgettable one. Balance. Freshness. Real ingredients. No shortcuts. Those same pillars, it turns out, translate directly into making a great ready-to-drink cocktail. Over the past several months, we put that to the test.

The Philosophy

At Common Roots, we hold one standard across everything we make. Beer, cider, coffee, non-alcoholic options, and now, canned cocktails. The products are different. The standard isn’t.

brewer mixing on the common roots pilot brewhouse
Person holding coffee beans in their hand

When we looked at the canned cocktail space, we didn’t see a problem to fix so much as a gap worth filling. Room for something that drinks like a cocktail, but brings along the care and craftsmanship that is on display in the craft beer space. Something refined enough to stand out to those with an existing affinity for cocktails, yet approachable enough to welcome new drinkers into the cocktail space. Our lineup of four craft canned cocktails puts a fresh spin on timeless classics, each built with quality ingredients and the same care that defines everything else that leaves this brewery.

Built for the Occasion

The right drink at the right moment is its own kind of craft.

As with great beer, great cocktails aren’t designed in a vacuum. They belong somewhere. On a porch, at a trailhead, floating down a river, watching the light shift over the mountains. When we set out to build this lineup, we didn’t start with a list of spirits and work backwards. We started with the moments. The kind of Upstate experiences that already carry a feeling, and then we asked what a drink needs to do to belong there.

That’s how four recipes took shape. Each one is anchored in a classic cocktail profile and given a fresh twist that fits within these experiences. Familiar enough to be an approachable offering. Refined enough to notice a difference. The Gin Collins for the adventure. The Italian Spritz for golden hour. The Blue Mule for the cool evening. The Tiki Punch for the float. A drink that meets you where you are just tastes better.

The Lineup

Gin Collins – The Porch Pour
Bright & Botanical | 10%ABV

A deck of cards on the table. The dog is asleep in the one patch of sun still hitting the porch. A speaker set atop a cooler filled with ice-cold beverages, surrounded by good company. 

Gin Collins belongs here. Gin botanicals and a bright citrus pop for an ultra-refreshing twist on a timeless classic. A hint of lime puts the citrus in the spotlight, adding a little more dimension without losing the clean, crisp character that makes this style so enduring.

Italian Spritz – The Aperitivo Hour Hero
Bright & Botanical | 10% ABV

Golden Hour in Upstate New York is a spectacle worthy of its own beverage. Something to pair with prepping veggies, or throwing burgers on the grill after a successful day of Upstate adventures.

Enter Italian Spritz. Vodka, orange, and bittersweet botanicals come together for an aperitivo that is lightly bitter and lightly sweet. Pour it over ice to let the orange come forward and soften the edges, or drink it straight from the can to let the bitters lead. Either way, don’t rush it.

Blue Mule – The Dockside Delight
Zesty & Crisp | 12% ABV

Feet dangling off the dock. The lake has gone still, and the tree line across the water is starting to darken at the edges. Time to start collecting firewood and find something cold to crack open.

This is Blue Mule territory. Zesty ginger and lime take the lead, complemented by the addition of blueberry for an effortless refreshment tailor-made for cool evenings and open landscapes.

Tiki Punch – The Party Pour
Tropical & Lively | 12% ABV

The floats are inflated. The speaker has enough charge to last the afternoon. The cooler is packed and positioned for maximum convenience and minimum effort. This is peak summer. Poolside, lakeside, riverside, it doesn’t matter. Tiki Punch was built for the occasion. 

Rum, pineapple, and grenadine come together for a tropical delight that is apologetically fun with real character. The ultimate poolside sipper and the undisputed refreshment for the long afternoon.

Where to Find Them

The full lineup is available now at the Flagship Taproom in South Glens Falls and the Albany Outpost. Available as a can pour at the bar or in 4-packs to take home. Can’t pick a favorite? Grab the mix pack and let the occasion decide.

We’re also hitting shelves at local liquor stores across the region this spring. Keep an eye out wherever you stock the cooler. A Common Roots canned cocktail deserves a spot in the rotation.

Feb 03

Built for Winter: Aprés Season in Common Roots Country

By Blog

Built for Winter: Aprés Season in Common Roots Country

It’s aprés season in Common Roots Country. 

First tracks on a powder day. Impromptu evening cross-country ski laps. Clearing a patch of ice for pond hockey. Quiet miles wandering through the woods on a pair of snowshoes. These are the moments that define our affinity for Upstate NY Winters. If you ask us, the best part is the refreshing reward that comes after a day well spent in our great big, beautiful backyard.

Man drinking gondola session on a chairlift
smiling man holding a can of spinner on a winter hike

Built for Winter.

Each member of our cozy season lineup of beer, cider, seltzer, and NA products was created with these moments in mind. We are in constant pursuit of perfecting beverages that embody the season and setting.  We strive to offer the perfect complement to kicking back in the lodge as the last chairs spin or to enjoy while shedding gear in the parking lot at the base of the trail.

Our winter lineup is the ideal mix of beverages that pair naturally with the recreational lifestyle of our region during the chilly months. While we brew with this intention year-round, the aprés beers of cozy season hit a little different this time of year. 

Adventure Ready Beers

gondola session, snowy night and snowy night coconut cans in the snow

Gondola Session IPA

Gondola Session is the quintessential slopeside sipper. Built for easy drinking when the boots finally come off. Hop-forward and refreshing with bright notes of guava and orange peel, Gondola is a super approachable and endlessly crushable Session IPA at 5.2% ABV.  The can art pays homage to the Old Red Gore Mountain Gondola, a longtime decorative fixture at our South Glens Falls location that dates back to our early days in the temporary taproom and serves as a nod to the local ski culture that helped shape this beer. Despite its ski-inspired motif, Gondola Session was brewed to celebrate outdoor adventures of any kind, and to act as a catalyst for recapping our winter pastimes.

man standing next to the red gondola in the old taproom

Bert posing with the Gore Mountain Gondola (2019)

Snowy Night Stout Series

The Snowy Night Series features three deliciously decadent Double Stouts, each brewed with vanilla and lactose. Snowy Night Original gives classic vanilla vibes, while Snowy Night Coconut brings chocolate coconut notes to the forefront. The series is rounded out with the nostalgic chocolate and marshmallow combo of Snowy Night S’mores. 

Coffee Cup Series

Our Coffee Stout Series features three unique brews, each using estate-roasted beans from Common Roots Coffee Company. Coffee Cup is the original member of the series, a true-to-style Double Coffee Stout, clocking in at 9% ABV. For those looking for a lower-ABV Milk Stout, Latte Cup brings bold coffee notes from our House Blend Coffee, balanced with a dose of lactose at 7% ABV. The heavy hitter in the rotation, Double Cup Imperial Stout, also features the House Blend Coffee and an addition of specialty malts that impart rich tiramisu flavors at 14%. 

These roasty options are particularly great pairings for bierstacheln, which is available to try at our Flagship Taproom every Sunday from 1-3.

Aprés Anything

While aprés-ski leads the charge on post-activity celebration during the winter months, our area provides too many activities to limit raising a glass to just one. Any outdoor conquest earns you a post-adventure beverage around these parts. Found a pond to lace up the skates? You earned it. Got a little lost on the cross-country or snowshoe trails? You earned it. Made it through clearing snow without incident? You earned it.

Snap, Tag, Sip

If you’re out in the wild enjoying a Common Roots beer, cider, coffee, or hop water, we want to see it.

Gondola Session

Tag @commonrootsbrewing in your winter activity photos featuring a Common Roots product, and you’ll unlock Happy Hour pricing for aprés beers at either taproom location.

Just show your tagged post to your beertender within seven days and enjoy $5 draft pours and $10 select pizzas. 

It’s our way of sharing our passion for outdoor adventures, and a thanks for bringing us along for whatever your winter season has in store. 

See You Out There

Winter in Upstate New York is what you make of it. For us, it’s about getting outside, staying active, and gathering together afterward to swap stories over great beer.

We’ll see you at aprés. Cheers. 

Nov 26
Can of Thunder Lager overlooking the ice at Harding Mazotti Arena

Enjoy Common Roots During the ADK Thunder Hockey Season

By Blog

Enjoy Common Roots During the Adirondack Thunder Hockey Season

Hockey season always brings a little extra buzz to the greater Glens Falls region, and this year we’re thrilled to be part of the action through our partnership with the Adirondack Thunder. We’ve introduced Thunder Lager to celebrate the shared spirit of teamwork and community between Common Roots and the Thunder. 

This crisp, easy-drinking Lager wears a vintage-inspired label that nods to the rich history of minor-league hockey in Glens Falls. Whether you’re in the crowd at Harding Mazzotti Arena or catching the game at the Flagship, you can enjoy Thunder Lager and Good Fortune (our Flagship IPA) as the go-to beverage for watching hometown hockey.

At the Arena

During home games at Harding Mazzotti Arena, Thunder Lager and Good Fortune are available throughout the concourse. You’ll find cans at:

  • Craft Corners above Section JJ and Section Q
  • Heritage Hall on the Mezzanine level
  • The beer stand above Section E

Plus, as soon as the Thunder earn their first power play of the night, Thunder Lager drops to $1 off for the rest of the game.

Catch Every Game at the Flagship Taproom

If you can’t make it to the arena, or the Thunder are on the road, the Flagship Taproom in South Glens Falls has you covered. We stream every home and away game all season. Bring your crew, grab a seat, and enjoy $5 Thunder Lager cans during every game.

No matter where you’re catching games this season, Thunder Lager and Good Fortune make great companions for watching Thunder Hockey. 

Sep 12
Fall beer cans on a red chair in the biergarten featuring Cider and Pumpkin Ale

Beers of Fall

By Blog

Beers of Fall

Fall vibes are setting in for us here in Upstate New York. With the change of season comes a shift to fall beer cravings. Crushable summer sippers give way to roasty delights that pair with the crisp, cooler air. The brewery and coffee crews have been hard at work over the past months, bolstering our fall lineup for the harvest season. 

Here is your guide to all things fall beer & refreshment at Common Roots:

Märzen Magic: Fritzi

Märzen is the classic German lager that built Oktoberfest traditions. Known for its smooth, malty backbone and toasty notes, it is an inherently celebratory beverage. 

Our take, Fritzi, leans into that timeless character while carrying its own signature balance. The rich caramel, malty flavor is countered by a crisp finish, making it approachable for fall beer drinkers of all palettes. Named after the matriarch of the Weber family: Elfriede “Fritzi” Weber, this brew pays homage to the Weber’s German heritage. It’s the kind of beer that feels right at home alongside fall foliage, hearty meals, and the golden September sun.

Can of Fritzi infront of the Albany Outpost fallscape
Can of Pumpkin Ale infront of the Flagship Taproom

A Seasonal Classic: Pumpkin Ale

Pumpkin ales have quickly become a quintessential fall beer over the past decade, signaling the arrival of cooler nights, golden leaves, and cozy gatherings. Our Pumpkin Ale seamlessly blends smooth malt character with warming spices that capture the essence of the season. It strikes a perfect balance. Robust and aromatic, offering depth and nuance without tipping into overwhelming sweetness. 

Expect a deep amber color with golden highlights on the pour, and inviting aromas of cinnamon, nutmeg, and subtle caramel. Notes of baked pumpkin and brown sugar are rounded out with just a hint of sweetness. The result is a beer that feels both familiar and inviting, ideal for pairing with your favorite autumn traditions.

Cider Delights

Few things hit the spot like a crisp hard cider when the air turns cool and the trees show their colors. Ours is made with a blend of fresh, locally sourced New York apples, resulting in a naturally bright, slightly tart sip. Common Roots Cider is light yet flavorful, striking the perfect balance between sweet and dry without ever feeling heavy. It’s a refreshing choice you can enjoy anytime throughout the season.

Craving something a little richer? Keep an eye out for Common Roots Cider Doughnut. Brewed with brown sugar, cinnamon, vanilla, and lactose, this special release captures all the nostalgia of a cider donut in liquid form.

Whether you’re heading to the orchard, gathering friends around the fire, or planning a fall feast, our ciders fit right in. They’re also a favorite for anyone seeking a gluten-free option that still delivers full, vibrant character. Stock up for weekends, share with friends, and savor every fleeting moment of autumn.

Cider can with a pour and apples
cider donught can next to two cider donughts

Outdoorsy Refreshment: Public Lands Pale Ale

Public Lands Pale Ale is a crisp, hop-forward fall beer built for autumnal adventures. Bright citrus and pine notes lead the way, with a clean, snappy finish that offers a refreshing break from the richer, heavier brews of the season. It’s the ideal pale ale for fall, ready to enjoy after a day on the trail, casting a line in a quiet stream, or soaking in the vibrant colors of the changing leaves.

Brewed in partnership with the Backcountry Hunters & Anglers Association, this beer celebrates the wild spaces that bring us together. Whether you’re hiking to a hidden overlook, wading into a cool river for some fall fly-fishing, or simply gathering with friends to share stories of the day, Public Lands is a toast to the places and the people that make autumn adventures unforgettable.

public lands pale ale

Darker Nights, Darker Beers

As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, there’s nothing better than a well-crafted dark beer to match the season. These styles bring depth and comfort to cool-weather sipping, each with its own distinct character.

Shadow Figures Porter – Smooth and satisfying, this porter layers roasted malt and chocolate notes for a rich yet approachable pint.

Coffee Cup Imperial Stout – Bold and warming, this brew features our house-roasted coffee for a robust flavor and a little extra kick, perfect for long, chilly nights.

Together, these beers showcase the range of dark beers ideal for fall. Whether you’re cozying up by the fire, capping off a day of outdoor adventure, or simply savoring the flavors of the season, this lineup offers the best dark beers for fall in every shade and style.

Café Twist: Pumpkin Spiced Latte

Fall flavors aren’t just for beer lovers. The Café is rolling out pumpkin-spiced lattes for the harvest season. Made with house-roasted coffee, perfectly blended with warming spices and silky steamed milk. The result is a warm, aromatic cup that brings the flavors of fall to life.

Whether you’re fueling up before a leaf-peeping road trip, warming your hands after a cool morning walk, or simply treating yourself to one of the season’s best fall coffee drinks, the Café is the perfect spot to settle in and savor the Autumn months.

Fall Beverages for any Occasion

Fall is full of rich flavors, from bold fall beers to warm, spiced drinks. Whether you’re enjoying a dark, roasty pint, sipping a crisp cider, or starting the day with a seasonal latte, there’s something here for every taste and every moment.

Stop by the Flagship Taproom, Albany Outpost, or Café to explore our fall lineup and bring a few favorites home. Here’s to crisp evenings, colorful days, and raising a glass to everything we love about this season.

Aug 22
Can of Rising from the Ashes 2025 with a pour behind it

Rising from the Ashes 2025 Foundation Weekend

By Blog

Rising from the Ashes: A Tradition Rooted in Community

Here’s to another round of Rising from the Ashes. Each year, this commemorative release supports the Common Roots Foundation and its mission to build a more just, active, and inclusive community. Every edition highlights a new style, and 2025 features a classic done right: a crisp and refreshing Kölsch-style ale.

Collage of past year's rising from the ashes labels

This Year’s Brew: Kölsch with Character

The Kölsch style bridges the gap between lager and ale. Brewed with fine Pilsen malt and traditional German hops, this year’s Rising from the Ashes delivers a clean, refreshing profile with subtle ale-like complexity.

The 2025 can art showcases the Albany skyline, complete with The Egg, Empire State Plaza, and the Alfred E. Smith Building. The design reflects our connection to the Capital Region and the opening of the Albany Outpost, a space that further roots us in the local community.

Brewing with Purpose: The Story Behind the Name

The name Rising from the Ashes pay tribute to the strength and support that carried Common Roots forward in the wake of a devastating fire that destroyed our original brewery in 2019. From that moment of loss came overwhelming community support and the determination to rebuild stronger. What began as a beer brewed in gratitude has become an annual tradition and a lasting symbol of resilience.

Proceeds from each pint or pack continue to fund the Common Roots Foundation, extending the ripple of community strength year after year.

Common Roots Foundation: Supporting Community and Equity

What began as a way to give back after the fire has grown into a year-round effort to strengthen the communities we call home.

The Common Roots Foundation was created to give back the same support we felt in the wake of the fire, and today it drives year-round efforts to strengthen the communities we call home. Grants and partnerships support projects that align with its mission to foster a more just, active, and inclusive region.

The Foundation funds initiatives that expand access to the outdoors, provide resources for youth development, and advance equity-driven programs. Whether you join a fundraiser, grab a 4-pack to-go, or enjoy a pint at the taproom, every pour of Rising from the Ashes beer helps fuel this mission.

Foundation Weekend 2025:

In addition to the release of Rising from the Ashes, the Common Roots Foundation is hosting two fundraising events for Foundation Weekend during the first weekend of October 2025. Participants will receive a discount on to-go beer all weekend long! Sign up for one event for 10% off or both events for 20% off.

River Run for the Roots 5K in South Glens Falls

Enjoy a scenic 5K run/walk/stroll along the Hudson River in South Glens Falls, followed by a post-race celebration at the Flagship Biergarten. Awards will be given for overall winners, age-group winners, and a stroller division.

Date & Location: Saturday, October 4th, Common Roots Flagship Biergarten.

Learn More & Sign Up
Runners running in the River Run for the Roots with logo overlay

Beat the Brewers Disc Golf Challenge

Our fifth annual Disc Golf Challenge brings together teams for a day of friendly competition, tasty beer, and community support. The format is simple: two rounds, morning and afternoon, with prizes for challenges like Ring of Fire, Longest Drive, and Closest to the Pin. The team that tops the Brewers’ score will claim the grand prize (and bragging rights). Expect plenty of craft beer, good food, and great company out on the course.

Date & Location: Sunday, October 5th, Crandall Park Disc Golf Course.

Learn More & Sign Up

Raise a Glass for a Great Cause

Rising from the Ashes is more than a beer—it’s a reminder of what can grow from challenge. Every year, it connects people, supports the Foundation, and celebrates the spirit of resilience that defines our community.

Grab a pint, sign up for an event, or simply share the story. Together, we can keep the tradition alive and the mission moving forward.

Find Rising from the Ashes at both taprooms and in select retail locations throughout the region.

Jul 29
Can of Zero Wake NA Helles with Brewery in background

Responsibly Refreshing Guide to Light and NA Options

By Blog

Responsibly Refreshing: Your Guide to Low ABV and NA Options

Summer is in full swing here in Upstate New York, which means there’s no shortage of reasons to raise a glass. With more people reaching for non-alcoholic and low ABV options, that glass doesn’t always have to come with a buzz. Whether you’re pacing yourself, craving something lighter, or just want a refreshing, hop-forward drink, we’ve got plenty of options to fit the moment.

From non-alcoholic brews to easy-drinking lagers and low-ABV IPAs, we’ve been rolling out a variety of new offerings designed to keep you refreshed and in the moment. Here’s your guide to enjoying Common Roots when you’re looking for something responsibly refreshing.

Cans of Hop Hydration, Zero Wake, and Common Roots Cold Brew lined up on a barrel in the beergarten

Non-Alcoholic Options

Zero Wake Helles (NA)

We’re thrilled to introduce our first Non-Alcoholic Brew: Zero Wake Helles. Crafted with specialty malts and noble hops, similar to our Common Roots Lager, this “near beer” delivers a crisp, clean profile that is made for all-day enjoyment. With just 65 calories and less than 0.5% ABV, it’s a flavorful and easy drinking alternative for when you want an alcohol free beer experience. Available now in 12oz cans and 6-packs at both locations, and heading to local retailers soon.

Hop Hydration 

Riding the wave of non-alcoholic innovation, Hop Water has become an increasingly popular choice in our taprooms. Blending the clarity and carbonation level of sparkling water with the hop character of beer, Hop Hydration delivers bright citrus notes and a refreshingly familiar mouthfeel. With a rotating selection of flavors, our current Lemon Lime version leans into the citrusy profile that pairs seamlessly with the addition of Citra Hops. Think a lemon-lime seltzer water with a bit more depth. Hop Hydration is available by the can or by the 6-pack in all locations. 

Cold Brew

For those seeking a caffeine boost, our non-alcoholic lineup is complemented by Common Roots Cold Brew. Roasted and brewed in-house with specialty beans, our cold brew is smooth, refreshing, and a great way to keep the day moving.  Available in cans at the Café and both taprooms, it’s a great grab whether you’re heading out for a hike or just need a pick-me-up that doesn’t involve hops.

Liquid Leisure Lime, Tropic, Low Wave, Shreddie and Capital Light cans on a biergarten chair

Low ABV Beers

For those looking to keep things light but not totally dry, the brew crew has been cranking out some stellar low ABV brews perfect for summer sipping. From hoppy beers to Lagers and beyond, our sessionable beer lineup has something crushable for every beer drinker. 

Session IPAs

On the hoppy side, Low Wave pushes the boundaries of what a low-ABV IPA can be at just 94 calories and 4% ABV. Dosed with a rotating selection of fruit, Low Wave delivers full hop character expected from an IPA with a burst of citrus. Perfect for keeping it light during any summer hang. 

Shreddie is our quintessential Session IPA. Bringing forward a full hoppy profile at 5% ABV, this easy sipper is the ultimate après beer. Like its wintertime counterpart, Gondola Session, Shreddie was made to serve as a reward for a day of outdoor activity. 

Crushable Lagers

The summer selection also features a trio of light-bodied, low-alcohol Lagers. Capital Light Lager checks all the boxes of this style. Crisp, clean, refreshing, and highly drinkable. At only 99 calories and 4% ABV, Capital Light is an excellent option for Lager lovers looking for something super crushable. Liquid Leisure Lime posts many of the same specs as Capital Light. 99 Calories, 4% ABV, but also brings along a hefty dose of lime character. 

Reference Method is a true-to-style German Pilsner at 4.2% ABV that packs an impressive punch for a low alcohol option. Slightly more complex than the Light Lagers, Reference Method provides a welcoming touch of hoppy bitterness with the same refreshing finish. 

Low Alcohol Sour

If pale and hoppy beers aren’t your thing, Tropic Sour Ale offers the tart punch of a sour beer at a lower ABV. Brewed with Citra hops and conditioned on raspberries and lime, Tropic is a highly approachable low alcohol option for those who don’t love a hoppy beer.

Brewed for Balance

Our lineup of non-alcoholic and low ABV options is brewed with the same care and creativity as everything we make. Designed to keep you enjoying great beer (and coffee) all year long, no matter your pace. Here’s to staying refreshed, staying present, and making the most of the season, one responsibly refreshing sip at a time.

Jun 27
Photo of the Exterior of the Common Roots Albany Outpost

Brewery Vibes for your Private Event in the Heart of Albany

By Blog

Brewery Vibes for your Albany Private Event

From casual happy hours to wedding rehearsal dinners, your event deserves a space that feels relaxed and welcoming. At the Common Roots Albany Outpost, you’ll find flexible spaces that fit whatever you’re planning, whether it’s drinks with coworkers or celebrating with family and friends. With great beer, scratch-made food, and a team focused on making things easy, your event will feel less like a production and more like a good time everyone can enjoy.

A Space that Works for You

At Common Roots Albany Outpost, we offer three distinct event spaces designed to accommodate everything from intimate gatherings to large-scale celebrations. Whether you’re planning a rehearsal dinner, shower, or company happy hour event in Albany, we offer a space that invites your guests to relax and enjoy.

The Great Room is our largest and most versatile space. With soaring ceilings, tall windows, and a striking stone fireplace, it’s an ideal setting for wedding welcome dinners, large corporate mixers, or milestone celebrations. The open floor plan can be customized to suit seated dinners, cocktail-style receptions, and everything in between.

The Montgomery Mezzanine offers a semi-private space that seats up to 60 guests. Overlooking the taproom, it features high, open ceilings and a relaxed but polished atmosphere. It’s a great choice for birthday parties, retirement celebrations, and business meetings. Need more room? Pair the Mezzanine with the Quackenbush area to expand your guest list, gain access to a private bar, and create a fully private experience.

The Quackenbush is perfect for more intimate gatherings, such as cocktail parties, off-site meetings, or smaller private events in Albany. It offers flexibility and charm, overlooking the Great Room from a cozy corner of our space.

Each of our event spaces features warm wood accents, abundant natural light, and a clean, modern aesthetic. Whether you’re aiming for a professional setup or a laid-back vibe, our dedicated event staff will help customize the layout and atmosphere to match your vision.

Large room with massive stone fireplace, brick walls, and long wooden tables
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Balcony seating with high top tables and brewing equipment nearby
Balcony seating with high top tables
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Balcony seating with high top tables

Dedicated Team, Smooth Execution

Planning an event can be stressful. But at Common Roots Albany Outpost, our goal is to make it feel easy.

From your first inquiry to the event day, you’ll work with the same dedicated event coordinator every step of the way. An experienced point person who knows the space, understands your vision, and makes sure everything comes together just right.

Whether you’re deciding which space best fits your vision or choosing the right menu for your guests, our coordinator will guide you through the entire process. We’ll help with floor plans, timelines, food and beverage selections, and day-of logistics, so you can focus on hosting, not troubleshooting.

Our hospitality team is experienced putting on all types of events, from formal corporate dinners to casual birthday gatherings. No matter the size or type of event, we’re here to make sure things run smoothly behind the scenes, so your event feels seamless from start to finish.

You bring the reason to celebrate. We’ll handle the rest.

“The entire process from our initial request to the last moments of the event was so easy. They were responsive to all of our questions, made every effort to understand what our needs were, and explained how Common Roots could meet them.”

Laurie Rankin

“I cannot recommend them enough. The staff is amazing and friendly. The food is incredible. It made for a really special evening and the next chance I get to use them again, I will.”

Charlie Mahoney

“My husband and I had our elopement after party here and it was perfect! It couldn't have gone any smoother. Easy, fun, and professional.”

Andrea Tabor

“We have heard so many wonderful things about the event, the location, the people, the food and the atmosphere. Thank you all so much for your hospitality, kindness, and collaboration!”

Laura Jensen

Award-Winning Beer and Scratch-Made Fare, Tailored to Your Event

We strive to deliver food and beverage options that live up to the occasion for your event. Treat your guests to a selection of our award-winning beer, alongside a curated selection of wine and spirits. It’s the perfect complement to a menu built entirely in-house, featuring scratch-made fare and customizable stations that can be tailored to your preference.

Guests can choose from crowd-pleasers like smash-style burger sliders, wraps, tacos, and pizzas. With plenty of options, including vegetarian (gluten friendly) choices, you can mix and match to create a spread that suits your vibe, whether it’s casual or more refined.

When it comes to drinks, we offer flexible bar packages to match your needs and budget. Hosts can opt for a full open bar, cash bar, or choose one of our hybrid options. Our limited bar package allows you to set a price limit for open bar, transitioning to a cash bar after a certain price is hit. Alternatively, a ticketed bar gives guests a number of drink tickets to be used before switching over to a cash bar.

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Crispy chicken on a fluffy bun with fresh slaw and pickles.
Beer Poured into a glass with CRBC logo
Table-Square
Charcuterie

Let’s Make it Happen

Interested in hosting your event at the Albany Outpost? Follow the links below to explore our menu options and view sample drink lists. Fill out an inquiry form to get started on planning your event!

May 29
4 bags of Common Roots House Blend Coffee

What is Specialty Coffee

By Blog

What is Specialty Coffee

Specialty coffee is the top tier of coffee quality. It’s known for its smooth, balanced flavor and clean finish without that harsh bitterness you might find in commercial roasts. These beans are usually roasted in small batches and sold fresh. Delivering a cup with more depth and character. Grown in high-altitude, tropical regions, specialty coffee is also sourced through ethical practices like fair trade and direct trade, which support both farmers and the environment.

If you’re already deep into your coffee journey or just starting, specialty coffee offers an elevated caffeination experience.

Specialty Coffee Testing

What Qualifies as Specialty Coffee?

To earn the title of “specialty,” coffee beans must score 80 points or more on a 100-point scale. This grading is done by certified Q Graders. These professional tasters evaluate aroma, flavor, acidity, body, and defects. Only beans that pass this rigorous test are graded specialty.

At Common Roots Coffee Company, our head roaster Luke Rock is a CQI-certified Q Grader. He uses those same standards in our process, making sure each roast is in the top quality tier.

How We Source Our Coffee

We exclusively use ethically sourced, specialty-grade beans from Colombia, Guatemala, and Mexico. Our sourcing approach puts sustainability and fair trade first. We partner with small farms that are fair trade certified, Rainforest Alliance members, and are often organic and female-owned. Many also focus on water conservation and apiary-friendly practices.

By paying a premium for these beans, we help small, independent farmers compete without relying on mass production. Unlike commercial coffee, which often uses chemical-heavy sun cultivation, our farms grow shade-grown coffee in healthy ecosystems that preserve biodiversity.

Every bag of green coffee we roast is handpicked with care. We evaluate origin, processing method, and flavor potential with guidance from our green coffee partners, like Covoya Coffee. This lets us consistently deliver coffee that tastes great and reflects our values.

Green coffee pouring into hopper
Specialty Coffee Testing

Our Roasting Approach

When a new variant of green coffee arrives, we start small. A 100-gram test roast helps us fine-tune for flavor before we move to larger batches. The pilot batch allows us to make educated adjustments and dial in the roast before scaling up. Perfecting the roast of new variants is paramount in bringing out the best character representation for the roast.

We look to develop the bean’s natural sweetness, build a satisfying body, and create a balanced, low-acid roast. The goal? Perfecting the roast to deliver a cup that’s smooth, and easy to enjoy though any brew method.

Small Batch Coffee

While all of our coffee products start with high-quality specialty beans, our Small Batch Coffee series takes things a step further. Launching in the coming weeks, this rotating lineup will highlight carefully selected single origin coffees sourced from distinct growing regions around the world. Each roast is handcrafted in small quantities by our team in Glens Falls, ensuring maximum freshness and precision.

We dial in the roast level to bring out the unique flavor profile of each bean—whether it’s a bright and citrusy Ethiopian or a rich, chocolatey Colombian. If you’re looking for fresh roasted coffee beans with real character, our Small Batch Coffee offerings are an excellent way to immerse yourself in the world of specialty coffee.

Cold brew can on green coffee bag

What About Cold Brew?

That same attention to detail carries over into our canned cold brew. We work with McManus, a co-packing partner that uses cold chain packaging to preserve roast quality. This lets us design roasts specifically for cold extraction, bringing out a smooth, sweet profile with low acidity.

The cans are also pasteurized, making them shelf-stable without sacrificing taste. You can pour one over ice or sip it straight from the can and still get that fresh-roasted character we’re proud of.

Ready to Try Specialty Coffee?

Whether you’re curious about specialty coffee or looking to shake up your usual routine, we’ve got you covered. Order online anytime, or stop by the Flagship Taproom, the Café at the Bierhall & Barrelhouse, or our Albany Outpost. You can also find our coffee at local Market 32 locations.

No matter where you pick it up, you’re getting coffee that’s thoughtfully sourced, skillfully roasted, and ready to enjoy.

Apr 09
Rising From the Ashed 4 Pack infront of taproom

Brewing For A Cause

By Blog

Brewing for a Cause

Since opening our doors in 2014, Common Roots Brewing Company has been directed by our core principles: healthy living, environmental sustainability, social responsibility, and inclusiveness. These pillars continue to guide us as we grow and serve our community and are exemplified in our cause beers.

One of our favorite ways to support organizations with like-minded values is by doing what we do best: brewing great beer to support great causes. From clean water advocacy to celebrating diversity and inclusion, our “cause beers” are brewed to serve a bigger purpose. Here are a few releases that are making an impact in our local community this year.

Beer can infront of full beer mug

Rising From The Ashes

Rising from the Ashes is a commemorative cause beer that benefits the Common Roots Foundation. The foundation was created to elevate and assist our community in times of need and promote our shared values of creating a more sustainable, inclusive, and safe community. The most recent iteration of Rising from the Ashes featured an Italian Pilsner brewed with CMC Euro-Pils, and hopped with Saphir & Hersbrucker. Previous years have featured IPA and Double IPA variations – all brewed with the same sense of purpose.

Pure Water, Pure Beer

Clean water is essential for a thriving community – and for brewing exceptional beer. Pure Water, Pure Beer is a crisp lager, brewed to support our friends at the New York Section American Water Works Association (AWWA). Their mission to building a better world through better water is one we proudly support. The AWWA shares many of our core principles, particularly regarding sustainable practices. They provide expertise, resources, and advocacy to meet the evolving needs of water systems and the communities they serve. Pure Water, Pure Beer will be available on 4/18 and symbolizes our gratitude for the AWWA’s work in our region.

can of pure water, pure beer next to a river
special edition Good Fortune cans

SHMD Good Fortune

Each spring, we support the South High Marathon Dance (SHMD), with special edition cans of Good Fortune IPA. This beloved community tradition is a staple in our area. Each year, we feature new can art with designs from local artists. Proceeds from 4-packs of this special edition can art directly to support SHMD’s fundraising efforts. We also host a pre-dance Happy Hour, where a portion of every beverage sold is donated to the South High Marathon Dance.

Carousel of Colors

Brewed in collaboration with our friends at Saratoga Pride, Carousel of Colors IPA has become an annual celebration of LGBTQ+ pride and inclusion. Released each June, proceeds from the sale of this beer support Saratoga Pride’s mission to foster and support a thriving LGBTQ+ community in our region. To further the celebration, we host an annual release party and Saratoga Pride Happy Hour, bringing people together over great beer, and the shared interest in supporting a meaningful cause.

beer can with pride flag
filled pint glass with Pink Boots Logo

Think Pink, Drink Pink

Each year, we participate in the Pink Boots Collaboration Brew Day, an initiative celebrating women and non-binary individuals in the fermented beverage and alcohol industry. Since 2020, this annual brew has been featured on our tap lines – including this year’s hazy pale ale crafted with a unique hop blend from our friends at Yakima Chief.

Cheers to Giving Back

At Common Roots, we believe great beer has the power to bring people together and catalyze meaningful change. Whether it’s protecting our clean water sources, supporting local organizations, or uplifting our community, each of these cause beers exemplify our dedication to making a difference. So, next time you’re enjoying a perfect pour at the Flagship Taproom or Albany Outpost, know you’re raising a glass to something bigger than the beer. 

Cheers!